June 13, 2014

The Motorcamp is drenched in kiwi summer, a strange or brilliant choice in the middle of winter. Every possible cliché about New Zealanders is covered; from the “real” people to the politically correct who patronise them. The script is strong with great dialogue but one flaw. The plot twist has highly implausible consequences quite out of line with the realism in the rest of the storyline and characterisation. The play was staged at Circa last year and I’d be interested to hear comparisons from people who saw that production.

The Porirua Little Theatre production had an excellent set, which we were informed is up for sale once the show closes. There were flashes of excellent acting; a fathers face going from concern to delight, an exasperated daughter. A few fumbled and forced lines are expected of opening night. I hope the actors settle into their roles over the course of the coming weeks.

Porirua Little Theatre are still fighting to save their “home” in Titahi Bay. In the meantime they have a huge pop-up theatre in the centre of Porirua. Remember to bring a jacket, as the big area is difficult to heat, and nibbles for the cabaret style seating.

June 11, 2014

I am speechless after tonights performance of de Sade by Alexander Sparrow. He did his very best to make every member of the audience feel included and uncomfortable. No one was safe.

Once again he sacrificed his body (in new and distrubing ways) for his art. It's theatre but with a dark comedic twist and included elements of improv. As much as the audience was kept on the edge of their seats they kept Alexander on his toes.

This is definately an adults only show. I would advise you to only go with very good friends, definately not a good place for a first date. Or perhaps it might be; it would foster open communication early in the relationship. It's a short season so get in quick.

It taught an interesting philosophy from a deeply disturbed man. Honesty. When you find someone attractive you should tell them. But I couldn't do it and scuttled out at the end of the show.

June 5, 2014

Crumble is a disturbing play about three women who's lives are crumbling, as is the house, around them.

I had expected the current Justin Timberlake but this play refers to the earlier NSYNC incarnation of the star being obsessed over by a teen. The characterisation would have been appropriate for someone several years older, even one year would have made it more believable. The two adult women were perfect pictures of women trying to make themselves happy with all the demands life places on them. To speak about the male roles much would reveal too much, they really are side pieces to the three main females.

I felt the production was let down by the ending. All the elements were there for a conclusion but it seemed instead to just end. The script seems weak in this area and perhaps there wasn't a way to bolster it up. After the emotional turmoil it was unsatisfactory.

Stagecraft have found innovative ways to adapt their space to the story while completely unsettling the audience. As always the acting is superb including the American accents (although one actress didn't have to fake it). Clever use of shadow and projections brings the women's fantasies, startlingly alike, to life.

Make sure you take a bathroom break first as there is no interval in this 90 minute show. This was an excellent idea as any interruption would be detrimental to the storyline by reducing the impact.